A former education union secretary who is facing misconduct charges claims he had consensual relationships with two staff members.
Glenn Fowler was stood down from his role at the Australian Education Union ACT branch in March after allegations of sexual harassment were made against him by seven staff members.
Mr Fowler strongly denies any allegation of sexual harassment.
Mr Fowler said his political opponents had disclosed confidential material while he was running in the election for branch president.
"At different times during 2020, as a single man, I had private relationships with two colleagues," Mr Fowler said.
"The relationships were consensual and respectful.
"In the course of an internal AEU process, I have provided a wealth of compelling, tangible evidence to support my defence.
"Out of respect for the process before the AEU and for the complainants, I do not wish to comment any more than is necessary, but I must go some way to addressing the current public attacks on me and my character.
"I thank the many members who are supporting me in all sorts of ways."
The complaints were put to current branch president Angela Burroughs in March.
Ms Burroughs, who is seeking re-election as president, said the claim confidential information had been released to the media during the election was baseless.
Minutes from a branch executive meeting viewed by The Canberra Times showed an independent investigation found there was a sustainable basis for a case of sexual harassment in the workplace.
Mr Fowler said he participated in the initial investigation and denied the allegations made against him.
"The allegations were then modified and re-put as part of a disciplinary process under the union's rules," he said.
"I once again denied the allegations and participated in the process despite expressing my concerns about the manner in which the process was being conducted.
"I have once again respected the confidentiality of the process, which is nearing its conclusion."
The disciplinary process under the union rules is ongoing.
Do you know more? Contact sarah.lansdown@canberratimes.com.au.
